Hubbard considers raising income tax

HUBBARD -- City council is considering placing a half-percent income-tax increase on the ballot to fund, among other things, a new police station and to maintain staffing levels on the police force. Councilman Richard Keenan, D-4th, chairman of the safety committee, said the consensus was reached during a Monday committee meeting. Keenan said council will formulate a plan to present to the public on how the money will be spent. The city has a 1 percent income-tax rate, the lowest in the area. A 0.5-percent increase would generate $500,000 annually. If the issue is to be placed on the May primary election ballot, the city must notify the Trumbull County Board of Elections by Feb. 20. The administration and council have been debating whether the city should remodel the aged police station, build a new one, buy another building or add onto the city administration building. The debate increased late last year when the county health department detected mold in the basement. Those who work in the building have complained of health issues. Acting Police Chief Kenneth Oyler said members of his department have filed seven grievances concerning health issues.